The Philippines has successfully obtained its first project financed by the Adaptation Fund, amounting to USD 10 million, during the 44th Board Meeting held in Bonn, Germany, from April 8 to 11, 2025. This initiative aims to bolster the resilience of communities in Tawi-Tawi, a province in the Philippines, against the adverse impacts of climate change.

Entitled ‘Harnessing the water-energy-food nexus to address and adapt to climate change impacts in Tawi-Tawi’, the project focuses on enhancing the adaptive capacity of the municipalities of Sibutu and Sitangkai.

Specifically, it aims to secure climate-resilient access to water for local communities.

The implementation of the project will include several critical components throughout its lifecycle.

These components comprise the deployment of resilient water supply systems that are integrated with existing renewable energy infrastructure in Tawi-Tawi, as well as local capacity building for effective water management practices.

Additionally, the project focuses on reinforcing local communities’ resilience and strengthening their livelihoods, alongside knowledge management efforts to scale the project’s initiatives across the Philippines.

The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) serves as the Designated Authority of the Adaptation Fund, overseeing the project's development in collaboration with relevant stakeholders to adequately address the risks and adverse impacts stemming from climate change, particularly in the water management sector of Tawi-Tawi.

The implementation will be carried out by the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) in partnership with the Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA).

Environment Secretary Maria Antonia Yulo Loyzaga highlighted that the project aligns with the country’s National Adaptation Plan, which focuses on securing food supply while nurturing natural resources and sustaining livelihoods as fundamental strategies in combating climate change.

Loyzaga emphasized the project’s role in recognizing the interconnectedness of essential resources within the water-energy-food nexus, thereby leading to more effective climate solutions.

She noted that enhancing water security is crucial not only for the livelihoods of seaweed farmers but also for reinforcing the economic foundations of communities vulnerable to climate change.

Representing the Non Annex I Parties, primarily consisting of developing nations, the Philippines participates in the Adaptation Fund Board through the Department of Finance (DOF).

Finance Secretary Ralph G. Recto underscored the significance of this project, stating it marks the country’s initial access to the Adaptation Fund and reaffirms a commitment to ensuring equitable climate resilience and sustainable development for all Filipinos.

Recto further asserted the importance of prioritizing communities like Tawi-Tawi in global climate financing, reiterating a commitment to improve the living conditions of those most at risk from climate change.